Make-Ahead Mini Dessert Cups

Name: Make-Ahead Mini Dessert Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (finely crushed); 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted); 500 ml heavy cream (chilled); 250 g cream cheese (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced); 1 cup raspberry jam; 100 g dark chocolate (shaved)

100 min 12 servings Easy

All Recipes

Make-Ahead Mini Dessert Cups

Delight your guests with these individual make-ahead mini dessert cups, perfect for dinner parties with three tantalizing flavour variations.

Prep

30 min

Cook

10 min

Total

100 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

There's something undeniably charming about individual dessert servings. They bring a touch of elegance to any event and make hosting a breeze with their make-ahead convenience. Our mini dessert cups are an ideal solution for dinner parties or catering trays, offering three delicious flavour variations to suit every palate. Whether you're looking for a classic, fruity, or indulgent chocolate version, these trifles will impress. Designed for both novice and experienced cooks, this recipe is easy to follow and allows you to prepare everything in advance, ensuring a stress-free gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients

Servings

For the base

For the filling

For the variations

Instructions

Prepare the base

Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Distribute evenly among 12 small serving cups, pressing down gently.

Pro tip: Ensure the base is evenly pressed to avoid crumbling.

Make the filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture.

Pro tip: Use a chilled bowl and beaters for best results with the whipped cream.

Assemble the classic variation

On top of the graham base, add a layer of cream mixture. Add a layer of raspberry jam, then top with another layer of cream.

Pro tip: Smooth each layer with a spoon for a neat appearance.

Assemble the strawberry variation

Layer cream mixture over the graham base, arrange sliced strawberries, then top with more cream.

Pro tip: For extra flavor, macerate the strawberries with a bit of sugar before layering.

Assemble the chocolate variation

Layer cream mixture over the graham base, sprinkle with shaved chocolate, then add a final cream layer.

Pro tip: Use a peeler to create chocolate curls for a decorative touch.

Chill the cups

Cover each cup with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavours to meld.

Pro tip: These can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use fresh fruit for the best flavour.</li><li>Prepare the components a day ahead for easy assembly.</li><li>Chill thoroughly for the best texture.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve these dessert cups chilled for the perfect refreshing end to your meal. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a light dessert wine. These mini dessert cups can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and ready to delight your guests.